Burlington Township Motorist Accused of Deliberately Running Down Man in Parking Lot
A Burlington Township man has been charged with attempted murder and other offenses after allegedly deliberately driving into someone in a parking lot in Lawrence Township. Petar Armbruster III, 54, is accused of following the victim and his girlfriend to a specialty grocery store on Spruce Street after an argument at a convenience store.
The incident took place on July 8 outside Halo Farm, a popular grocery store in Lawrence Township. According to the police, Armbruster waited in his car for the couple to return to their vehicle and then drove at them at high speed around 5:10 p.m. The victim was struck by the car, suffering brain bleeds, fractures to his skull, and an ankle injury. Fortunately, the woman narrowly escaped being hit.
The victim, whose identity has not been disclosed, was hospitalized in serious condition following the incident. The woman, who referred to Armbruster as Rhino, told investigators that he had been threatening them for the past month. She reported hearing tires spinning in the parking lot and then saw Armbruster accelerating towards her. The vehicle veered and struck the victim, according to her statement.
Law enforcement authorities were able to identify Armbruster through surveillance video and state motor vehicle records. He was subsequently arrested on July 11 in Trenton. Armbruster is facing multiple charges, including aggravated assault, assault by auto, leaving the scene of a motor vehicle crash with serious injuries, and refusing to cooperate with police during fingerprinting.
It is important to note that the charges against Armbruster are only allegations, and he has not yet been convicted in this case. The investigation is ongoing, and the authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward and contact Lawrence Police Detective Paulina Way.
This incident has sparked concerns about the safety of individuals in parking lots and the need for heightened security measures. While narratives regarding the incident may differ, it is crucial to await the conclusion of the investigation before making any definitive judgments.
The case highlights the importance of resolving conflicts peacefully and finding non-violent ways to address disputes. Acts of violence can have severe consequences, not only for the victims but also for the perpetrators who may face significant legal repercussions.
Law enforcement agencies work diligently to ensure public safety and hold individuals accountable for their actions. The criminal justice system will determine the appropriate course of action in this case, taking into consideration the evidence and testimonies presented.
As the legal process unfolds, it is essential for all parties involved to respect the principle of innocent until proven guilty. The ultimate goal is to achieve justice and ensure the safety and well-being of the community.
In conclusion, the Burlington Township motorist accused of intentionally running down a man in a parking lot now faces serious charges, including attempted murder. The incident serves as a reminder that violence is never the solution, and peaceful resolutions must be sought to address disagreements. The legal process will determine the outcome, and any relevant information provided by the public will be crucial in aiding the investigation.
